Common Conditions

Treating Low Testosterone

What are the potential benefits of testosterone treatment?

Most studies of testosterone therapy have demonstrated an improvement in libido and sexual function in men with hypogonadism, or low levels of male hormones. Researchers have found that therapy increased sexual interest and increased the number of spontaneous erections. However, testosterone replacement may not improve erectile dysfunction if there are other causes of the condition.

In addition to its effect on sexual domains, testosterone replacement has been shown to benefit mood, reducing symptoms of depression, anger, fatigue and confusion. Other research suggests that treatment may have beneficial effects on bone mineral density. Further studies in these areas are needed.

In the U.S., several forms of testosterone replacement are approved for use. These include long- and short-acting injections, oral agents, patches and gels. Interest in these products has risen dramatically in the last decade or so.